PHOTOS BY BRETT KANE
Fourth of July in Hermiston got off to a slow, simmering start before heating up with a sizzling fireworks display that capped off a day-long celebration at Butte Park.
The crowd numbers rose throughout the day right along with the temperature on Saturday as folks from all around took in the sights and sounds. The event, sponsored by the Hermiston Parks and Recreation Department, had something for everyone. The younger crowd flocked to the bounce houses, obstacle course, face painting and more.
Big Top the Clown entertained the kids with his bag of tricks. Big Top, also known as Richard Melendy, is a former Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus clown.
Back by popular demand was Keith Ramsay and his Fired Up Magic act and ventriloquism show – always a hit with the kids.
For those who wanted to chill out in the summer sun, there was plenty of refreshments and cool beverages to help keep cool while taking in the entertainment from acts such as Bobby & Faith, who gave an unplugged performance in the afternoon. Performing several sets throughout the day was the Shades, the Tri-Cities band that has entertained Hermiston crowds on the Fourth of July for the past several years.
And for those who like to get their hands dirty – or wet and sticky – there was the watermelon smashing contest.
As the sun went down and the temperatures cooled off, the celebration was culminated with a 20-minute fireworks show as Hermiston wrapped up America’s 239th birthday party in style.
Here’s a look back at some of the sights from Saturday:
